Hospital Acquired Infections

Whether you or a relative have picked up a hospital acquired infection, once the shock subsides you want to know what your options are. Sadly, despite the government promises to reduce hospital superbugs, we are seeing a growing number of victims catching them. The well publicised story of Lesley Ash receiving £5 million pounds for a hospital acquired superbug has highlighted the problem to many people. This section explores the two superbugs and the action you can take.

C Diff (Clostridium Difficile)

C DIFF or C Difficile can be acquired whilst in hospital receiving medical treatment. Poor hygiene can be the reason for the infection. C Diff is actually a natural bacterium which inhabits the body. The natural balance of this bacterium can change following an operation through the use of antibiotics. Initial symptoms are diarrhoea progressing to severe dehydration or even death. Early diagnosis is therefore essential.

It is of note that alcohol gels are inactive against these types of spores and the only reliable method to reduce hand transmission is soap and water.

MRSA

MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aurcus) was first isolated in 1961 and by the late 1990's it had become endemic in most UK hospitals. It is now much more prominent due to the cleanliness problems in hospitals and poor infection control. Because it attacks people with weaker immune systems the elderly and ill are very often the most likely to be affected by MRSA.

There is often a delay in diagnosis or inappropriate therapy is given which can lead to deterioration or even death.

To prove a claim for medical negligence the person claiming must be able to show that the source of the infection arose in the hospital and that there had been a failure to treat it adequately or at all.

What Action Should You Take?

Early legal advice is essential to assess whether you have a valid legal claim. Glynns offer free initial legal advice and can often act for you on a "no win, no fee" basis. If we cannot we will provide you with funding alternatives.

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Testimonials

"Before we contacted you we had no real idea that we had grounds for a medical negligence claim but after speaking to you if became clear that Wendy was indeed treated poorly. Chris took the time to explain what was happening and kept us to speed. Our deepest gratitude to you all and Chris in particular."

"I would like to say a big thank you to you for making this whole process easy and relatively painless. You kept me informed throughout and you were always polite and courteous in all forms of communication. I would not hesitate to recommend you to friends and family, so a really big thank you and I wish you all the best in the future."